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Mini BBQ Sliders Recipe

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Easy, flavorful mini BBQ sliders perfect for parties and casual gatherings. Juicy, smoky meat patties with tangy BBQ sauce and customizable toppings served on toasted mini buns.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 mini slider buns (preferably soft, brioche-style)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for toasting buns)
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pickle slices
  • Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
  • Cheddar cheese slices or shredded cheese (optional)
  • Red onion slices
  • Fresh jalapeños, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 7-8 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.
  2. Mix the Meat: In a large bowl, combine ground beef with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Form Mini Patties: Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Shape each into a small patty with a slight indentation in the center.
  4. Cook the Patties: Heat grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface. Cook patties 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). In the last minute, brush patties with warm BBQ sauce and add cheese if using. Cover briefly to melt cheese.
  5. Toast the Buns: Brush buns with olive oil or melted butter. Toast on grill or skillet until golden and slightly crisp.
  6. Assemble Sliders: Spread BBQ sauce on bottom bun, add patty, then toppings like pickles, coleslaw, onions, jalapeños. Cap with top bun and serve immediately or set up a slider bar.

Notes

Do not over-mix the beef to avoid tough patties. Indent patties to prevent puffing. Brush BBQ sauce on patties at the end to avoid burning. Toast buns well to prevent sogginess. Prepare BBQ sauce a day ahead for better flavor. Use Martin’s Potato Rolls for best buns. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Vegetarian options include black bean patties or grilled portobello mushrooms.

Nutrition

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